Think About Alternatives When Using The Toilet Becomes Hard

Toileting aids used outside of a conventional bathroom play a part in the lives of many people in the UK. Certain physical conditions reduce mobility, making using the WC more difficult. Fortunately there are options to make life easier.

Commodes

In these circumstances, a commode chair might be a useful piece of equipment. For those spending extended periods in bed, it may become a routine-use item.

Before deciding which one you need, consider carefully the space you have available. As they tend to be next to a bed, it is wise to measure the area to ensure it is adequate. Many models are available with discreet designs, blending in with the room’s existing furniture.

Some commodes are foldable and easily stored away in a cupboard when not in use. Usually this type has a steel or metal frame with plastic components. Make sure you select one which is easy to clean.

Bear in mind that in many cases you will need someone to help you fold and unfold the chair. This person will also need to empty and clean the commode pan after use.

Many people need a carer to assist you in getting on and off the commode. It is important the commode chair is stable through this process. Transfer boards are useful to bridge the gap between bed and chair.

Think too about the height of the bed. In terms of its compatibility, it is helpful to ensure it is not unusually high or low. Grab rails fitted next to it may in some cases make patient transfer an easier process.

A commode chair can be an essential piece of kit if you find yourself unable move upstairs at home. Reduced mobility can make staircases serious obstacles. Some in the elderly community find the first floor of their house is impossible to reach, forcing them to sleep downstairs.

In most houses the bathroom is upstairs, which presents its own problems. In these circumstances, someone may choose to use a commode downstairs. For these situations, wooden framed models provide a good option. Many of these are attractive pieces of furniture which are not noticeable. A lid, doubling as a seat, covers the aperture.

Aids to raise the height of a toilet seat

People with many conditions associated with aging find it difficult to use the toilet. The reasons for this can be manifold, but the problem often boils down to difficulty in sitting down and standing back up.

There is potential to alleviate this problem by using equipment like support rails positioned next to the WC. These provide a stable hand hold for the user, increasing their sense of safety.

A toilet frame does a similar job of supporting the individual to access the WC. These move out of the way when not in use.

There are other methods to reduce the distance of travel which sitting down and standing up requires. A common one is the use of a raised toilet seat.

These devices fit either to the toilet bowl itself, or the existing seat above it. Some have clips which fit under the rim, while others have Velcro straps which attach to the seat.

Typically they are foam-filled constructions, with a wipe-clean outer layer. Others are hollow plastic shells, providing a more rigid platform on which to sit. Foam-filled varieties have adequate rigidity, but provide a slightly softer seat.

Both types of raised toilet seat reduce the distance required to sit down. In many cases this reduces the strain on the body, making the toilet easier to use. Most models are available in more than one size. Commonly, these devices can raise the sitting height of a toilet seat up to around five inches.

Derry has been working in the mobility aids industry since 2003, acquiring a wealth of knowledge along the way. Before Essential Aids, Derry's background was in engineering. In his spare time he is a devotee of yoga and rare reggae vinyl.